A look back at decade of Iraq

Costs, for people and in dollars, still are being tallied.

Updated 1:08 am, Sunday, March 24, 2013

Air Force Reserve Maj. Shad Magann walks from an abandoned building in Climax Springs, Mo. During the Iraq invasion, he was in charge of two close air support teams.

Air Force Reserve Maj. Shad Magann walks from an abandoned building in Climax Springs, Mo. During the Iraq invasion, he was in charge of two close air support teams.

Photo: Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News

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Magann talks on his cellphone before heading out to Cannon Range at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., to observe close air support training.

Magann talks on his cellphone before heading out to Cannon Range at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., to observe close air support training.

Photo: Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News

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An A-10 Warthog jet makes a low pass over a target site at the Cannon Range at Fort Leonard Wood. These aircraft were used extensively during the Iraq invasion.

An A-10 Warthog jet makes a low pass over a target site at the Cannon Range at Fort Leonard Wood. These aircraft were used extensively during the Iraq invasion.

Photo: Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News

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Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann (right) observes close air support team members in training at Cannon Range at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri on Thursday, March 7, 2013. Magann was in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion during the Iraq Invasion in March 2003. Magann is now a reservist pilot at Whiteman Air Force Base. He is currently looking for a civilian commercial pilot job.

Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann (right) observes close air support team members in training at Cannon Range at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri on Thursday, March 7, 2013. Magann was in charge of two close air

Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann shields his eyes as he looks up in the sky for a Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt jet aircraft during training near Climax Springs, Missouri on Thursday, March 7, 2013. Magann was in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion during the Iraq Invasion in March 2003. Magann is now a reservist pilot at Whiteman Air Force Base. He is currently looking for a civilian commercial pilot job.

Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann shields his eyes as he looks up in the sky for a Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt jet aircraft during training near Climax Springs, Missouri on Thursday, March 7, 2013.

Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann pets his dogs, Buster and Stewie, at his home in Warrensburg, Missouri on Thursday on Thursday, March 7, 2013. Magann was an officer in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion during the Iraq Invasion in March 2003. Magann is now a reservist pilot at Whiteman Air Force Base. He is currently looking for a civilian commercial pilot job.

Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann pets his dogs, Buster and Stewie, at his home in Warrensburg, Missouri on Thursday on Thursday, March 7, 2013. Magann was an officer in charge of two close air support

Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann clears snow from his driveway at his home in Warrensburg, Missouri on Thursday on Thursday, March 7, 2013. Magann was an officer in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion during the Iraq Invasion in March 2003. Magann is now a reservist pilot at Whiteman Air Force Base. He is currently looking for a civilian commercial pilot job.

Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann clears snow from his driveway at his home in Warrensburg, Missouri on Thursday on Thursday, March 7, 2013. Magann was an officer in charge of two close air support teams

Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann puts out food for his dogs at his home in Warrensburg, Missouri before heading to work on Thursday, March 7, 2013. Magann was an officer in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion during the Iraq Invasion in March 2003. Magann is now a reservist pilot at Whiteman Air Force Base. He is currently looking for a civilian commercial pilot job.

Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann puts out food for his dogs at his home in Warrensburg, Missouri before heading to work on Thursday, March 7, 2013. Magann was an officer in charge of two close air support

Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann takes care of paperwork at Whiteman Air Force Base on Friday, March, 8, 2013. Magann was in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion during the Iraq Invasion in March 2003. Magann is now a reservist pilot at Whiteman Air Force Base. He is currently looking for a civilian commercial pilot job.

Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann takes care of paperwork at Whiteman Air Force Base on Friday, March, 8, 2013. Magann was in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion

A journal (right) and some Iraqi documents belong to Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann who currently resides in Warrensburg, Missouri. Magann was in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion during the Iraq Invasion in March 2003. Magann is now a reservist pilot at Whiteman Air Force Base. He is currently looking for a civilian commercial pilot job.

A journal (right) and some Iraqi documents belong to Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann who currently resides in Warrensburg, Missouri. Magann was in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the

Writings on a cellar wall in the home of Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann in Warrensburg, Missouri. Magann was in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion during the Iraq Invasion in March 2003. Magann is now a reservist pilot at Whiteman Air Force Base. He is currently looking for a civilian commercial pilot job.

Writings on a cellar wall in the home of Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann in Warrensburg, Missouri. Magann was in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion during the

Writings on a cellar wall in the home of Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann in Warrensburg, Missouri. Magann was in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion during the Iraq Invasion in March 2003. Magann is now a reservist pilot at Whiteman Air Force Base. He is currently looking for a civilian commercial pilot job.

Writings on a cellar wall in the home of Air Force Reservist Major Shad Magann in Warrensburg, Missouri. Magann was in charge of two close air support teams assigned to the 3-69th Armored Battalion during the

A Fairchild Republic A-10 Warthog jet aircraft fires its 30mm cannon toward a target site at the Cannon Range at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri during training exercises on Thursday, March 7, 2013. The A-10s were utilized extensively for close air support during the Iraq Invasion in 2003.

A Fairchild Republic A-10 Warthog jet aircraft fires its 30mm cannon toward a target site at the Cannon Range at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri during training exercises on Thursday, March 7, 2013. The A-10s were

A U.S. soldier keeps watch as a Kuwaiti backhoe breaks through a 15-foot berm (wall of sand) on the Iraqi border to create a path for armed forces vehicles on March 20, 2003, in the northern Kuwaiti desert. Iraq reportedly fired a scud missile toward Kuwait City, which was shot down by a patriot missile. less

A U.S. soldier keeps watch as a Kuwaiti backhoe breaks through a 15-foot berm (wall of sand) on the Iraqi border to create a path for armed forces vehicles on March 20, 2003, in the northern Kuwaiti desert. ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A Kuwaiti backhoe breaks through a 15-foot berm (wall of sand) and into Iraq to create a future path for armed forces vehicles on March 20, 2003, on the Kuwait/Iraq border. Iraq reportedly fired a scud missile toward Kuwait City, which was shot down by a patriot missile. less

A Kuwaiti backhoe breaks through a 15-foot berm (wall of sand) and into Iraq to create a future path for armed forces vehicles on March 20, 2003, on the Kuwait/Iraq border. Iraq reportedly fired a scud missile ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Sgt. Travis Crosby (GA) flies an American flag from an antenna on his crew's armored vehicle in southern Iraq on March 21, 2003. A1C Nick Taylor (OH), right, helps Crosby with the flag.

Sgt. Travis Crosby (GA) flies an American flag from an antenna on his crew's armored vehicle in southern Iraq on March 21, 2003. A1C Nick Taylor (OH), right, helps Crosby with the flag.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A burned-out Iraqi tank left over from the Gulf War sits in the southern Iraqi desert as 3rd Infantry troops move north toward Jalabad Airfield on March 21, 2003.

A burned-out Iraqi tank left over from the Gulf War sits in the southern Iraqi desert as 3rd Infantry troops move north toward Jalabad Airfield on March 21, 2003.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Humvees and tanks negotiate a muddy, one-lane road as 3rd Infantry troops move north on March 22, 2003. Troops moved unopposed toward the heart of Iraq.

Humvees and tanks negotiate a muddy, one-lane road as 3rd Infantry troops move north on March 22, 2003. Troops moved unopposed toward the heart of Iraq.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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During a light moment, soldiers in the 3rd Infantry play a game of throwing desert fruit at each other while they wait to move to their next location on March 22, 2003. Troops moved unopposed toward the heart of Iraq. less

During a light moment, soldiers in the 3rd Infantry play a game of throwing desert fruit at each other while they wait to move to their next location on March 22, 2003. Troops moved unopposed toward the heart ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A1C Nick Taylor keeps his gun trained as SSgt. Travis Crosby looks for a possible sniper on March 22, 2003. First brigade troops moving north toward the heart of Iraq had heard reports of a possible sniper in the area as they were traveling through. less

A1C Nick Taylor keeps his gun trained as SSgt. Travis Crosby looks for a possible sniper on March 22, 2003. First brigade troops moving north toward the heart of Iraq had heard reports of a possible sniper in ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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U.S. forces take three enemy POWs after a battle near Ah Najaf as 3rd Infantry troops moved north through the central farmlands of Iraq on March 23, 2003.

U.S. forces take three enemy POWs after a battle near Ah Najaf as 3rd Infantry troops moved north through the central farmlands of Iraq on March 23, 2003.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Spc. Bryan Slick removes his goggles after a day of battle in Ah Najaf on March 23, 2003. Slick is an armored personnel carrier driver.

Spc. Bryan Slick removes his goggles after a day of battle in Ah Najaf on March 23, 2003. Slick is an armored personnel carrier driver.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A burned out Iraqi military truck with a 57mm anti-aircraft gun mounted in the back burns after being bombed by American forces at Ah Najaf on March 23, 2003. Two Iraqi soldiers were reportedly killed in the blast. less

A burned out Iraqi military truck with a 57mm anti-aircraft gun mounted in the back burns after being bombed by American forces at Ah Najaf on March 23, 2003. Two Iraqi soldiers were reportedly killed in the ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Two Iraqis wave their hands at Task Force 369 soldiers while driving byas the 3rd Infantry move north through the central farmlands of Iraq on March 23, 2003. It was unknown whether they were trying to be friendly or show that they were unarmed. less

Two Iraqis wave their hands at Task Force 369 soldiers while driving byas the 3rd Infantry move north through the central farmlands of Iraq on March 23, 2003. It was unknown whether they were trying to be ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Air Force tactical air controllers Capt. Shad Magann (FL), left, and Sgt. Travis Crosby (GA) control the air from their Humvee as they send nine morning missions to bomb targets in a region north of them on March 24, 2003, in South Central Iraq. less

Air Force tactical air controllers Capt. Shad Magann (FL), left, and Sgt. Travis Crosby (GA) control the air from their Humvee as they send nine morning missions to bomb targets in a region north of them on ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A1C Nick Taylor (OH) sits alone in the back of an M113-A3 armored carrier during a break in action in South Cental Iraq on March 24, 2003.

A1C Nick Taylor (OH) sits alone in the back of an M113-A3 armored carrier during a break in action in South Cental Iraq on March 24, 2003.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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U.S. forces take three enemy POWs after a battle near Ah Najaf as 3rd Infantry troops moved north through the central farmlands of Iraq on March 23, 2003.

U.S. forces take three enemy POWs after a battle near Ah Najaf as 3rd Infantry troops moved north through the central farmlands of Iraq on March 23, 2003.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Sgt. Sirvantis Dennis sleeps on a cot outside his vehicle after working overnight in the 1st Brigade's tactical operations center on March 24, 2003, in an area south of Baghdad.

Sgt. Sirvantis Dennis sleeps on a cot outside his vehicle after working overnight in the 1st Brigade's tactical operations center on March 24, 2003, in an area south of Baghdad.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A task force 369 soldier of the 1st Brigade, 3ID sleeps on a cot in front of a row of armored vehicles that make up the 1st Brigade's tactical operations center south of Baghdad in Iraq on March 24, 2003.

A task force 369 soldier of the 1st Brigade, 3ID sleeps on a cot in front of a row of armored vehicles that make up the 1st Brigade's tactical operations center south of Baghdad in Iraq on March 24, 2003.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A soldier stands inside his vehicle at the scene of a battle in Kifil as a sandstorm moves in on March 25, 2003.

A soldier stands inside his vehicle at the scene of a battle in Kifil as a sandstorm moves in on March 25, 2003.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Air Force SSgt. Travis Crosby (GA) adjusts his night vision goggles as a sandstorm creates a brownout effect in Southern Iraq on March 25, 2003. Heavy clouds of dust and sand reduced visibility and brought the dark a few hours early. less

Air Force SSgt. Travis Crosby (GA) adjusts his night vision goggles as a sandstorm creates a brownout effect in Southern Iraq on March 25, 2003. Heavy clouds of dust and sand reduced visibility and brought the ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A U.S. soldier looks through his binoculars as a severe sandstorm creates a brownout near the scene of a battle with Iraqi soldiers in South Central Iraq on March 25, 2003.

A U.S. soldier looks through his binoculars as a severe sandstorm creates a brownout near the scene of a battle with Iraqi soldiers in South Central Iraq on March 25, 2003.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A U.S. soldier takes a picture of a pair of dead Iraqi soldiers after a battle with U.S. troops at a bridge crossing the Euphrates River in Southern Iraq on March 25, 2003.

A U.S. soldier takes a picture of a pair of dead Iraqi soldiers after a battle with U.S. troops at a bridge crossing the Euphrates River in Southern Iraq on March 25, 2003.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A U.S. tank searches through a lush field near the Euphrates River during a battle with Iraqi soldiers in South Central Iraq on March 25, 2003. U.S. troops were crossing a nearby bridge when Iraqis tried to blow it up. The bridge was damaged but passable. less

A U.S. tank searches through a lush field near the Euphrates River during a battle with Iraqi soldiers in South Central Iraq on March 25, 2003. U.S. troops were crossing a nearby bridge when Iraqis tried to ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Two U.S soldiers cover a dead Iraqi soldier after a battle near a bridge over the Euphrates River in Southern Iraq on March 25, 2003. The Iraqis reportedly tried to blow up the bridge as U.S. troops drove over it. The bridge sustained damage, but was still passable. less

Two U.S soldiers cover a dead Iraqi soldier after a battle near a bridge over the Euphrates River in Southern Iraq on March 25, 2003. The Iraqis reportedly tried to blow up the bridge as U.S. troops drove over ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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U.S. soldiers watch the waterfront as a Marine reconnaissance group inspects the integrity of a bridge damaged by Iraqi bombs in South Central Iraq on March 25, 2003. The bridge was still passable.

U.S. soldiers watch the waterfront as a Marine reconnaissance group inspects the integrity of a bridge damaged by Iraqi bombs in South Central Iraq on March 25, 2003. The bridge was still passable.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Cpl. Bryan Beard (KS) walks against a stiff wind on guard duty near the Army 1st Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division operations center in Southern Iraq on March 25, 2003.

Cpl. Bryan Beard (KS) walks against a stiff wind on guard duty near the Army 1st Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division operations center in Southern Iraq on March 25, 2003.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Black smoke billows from a blown up Iraqi military truck over a ridge as 3rd Infantry troops move toward an escarpment in Ah Najaf on March 23, 2003. The white smoke is caused by a concealment grenade fired by a U.S. tank. less

Black smoke billows from a blown up Iraqi military truck over a ridge as 3rd Infantry troops move toward an escarpment in Ah Najaf on March 23, 2003. The white smoke is caused by a concealment grenade fired by ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS

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Two U.S. soldiers run back to their tanks in an unsecure zone after covering the body of an Iraqi soldier and taking his weapon in Southern Iraq on March 25, 2003. U.S. troops battled Iraqis, who tried to blow up a bridge U.S. troops were crossing. Another soldier inside the minivan was killed as well. less

Two U.S. soldiers run back to their tanks in an unsecure zone after covering the body of an Iraqi soldier and taking his weapon in Southern Iraq on March 25, 2003. U.S. troops battled Iraqis, who tried to blow ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A Humvee moves across the desert as the sun sets near the Task Force 3/69 command center in south central Iraq on March 27, 2003. After two days of heavy sandstorm, the skies cleared Thursday with sunny, weather and good visibility. less

A Humvee moves across the desert as the sun sets near the Task Force 3/69 command center in south central Iraq on March 27, 2003. After two days of heavy sandstorm, the skies cleared Thursday with sunny, ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, AP

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A1C Nick Taylor of Ohio drinks water while working in the back of the Task Force 3/69 air liaison vehicle in south-central Iraq on March 27, 2003. Taylor was helping control air traffic as coalition forces bombed strategic Iraqi targets. less

A1C Nick Taylor of Ohio drinks water while working in the back of the Task Force 3/69 air liaison vehicle in south-central Iraq on March 27, 2003. Taylor was helping control air traffic as coalition forces ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, AP

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Lt. Kyle Wiginton removes his gas mask after a false alarm on the morning of March 28, 2003. Troops later were forced to wear their masks again after U.S. bombers blasted a series of large fuel storage cells about 25 kilometers away. less

Lt. Kyle Wiginton removes his gas mask after a false alarm on the morning of March 28, 2003. Troops later were forced to wear their masks again after U.S. bombers blasted a series of large fuel storage cells ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A black cloud of smoke rises in the distance as a soldier with Task Force 3/69 walks to his vehicle in his gas mask on March 28, 2003, in the Iraqi desert. U.S. bombers blasted a series of large fuel storage cells and many surrounding troops were ordered to wear their gas mask until it was certain no chemicals were released into the air. less

A black cloud of smoke rises in the distance as a soldier with Task Force 3/69 walks to his vehicle in his gas mask on March 28, 2003, in the Iraqi desert. U.S. bombers blasted a series of large fuel storage ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A feral animal roams for food near the Army 27 Infantry's assembly area on March 29, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. Several soldiers said a barbecued fox would probably taste better than their MREs. The fox went unharmed. less

A feral animal roams for food near the Army 27 Infantry's assembly area on March 29, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. Several soldiers said a barbecued fox would probably taste better than their MREs. ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Sgt. Andrew Barnett (GA) with the Army 27 Infantry of 1st Brigade reads the Bible in the back of his truck on March 29, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Sgt. Andrew Barnett (GA) with the Army 27 Infantry of 1st Brigade reads the Bible in the back of his truck on March 29, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Spc. Joe Perez (GA) carries boxes of MREs (Meals, Ready to Eat) to his vehicle at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. Each box holds twelve MREs.

Spc. Joe Perez (GA) carries boxes of MREs (Meals, Ready to Eat) to his vehicle at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. Each box holds twelve MREs.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, EXPRESS-NEWS FILE PHOTO

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Lt1. Rodney McCutcheon (SC) fills a five gallon jug with potable water from a tank at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. With supply lines falling behind, troops are rationing water to two 1.5 liter bottles a day per person. less

Lt1. Rodney McCutcheon (SC) fills a five gallon jug with potable water from a tank at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. With supply lines falling behind, ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A1C Nick Taylor (OH), Spc. Bryan Slick (MD) and SrA. Dan Housley (Huntsville, TX) bide their time in the late afternoon at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. For many with the 3rd Infantry Division, this was another day of waiting until until the start of their next objective. less

A1C Nick Taylor (OH), Spc. Bryan Slick (MD) and SrA. Dan Housley (Huntsville, TX) bide their time in the late afternoon at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Sgt. Jose Rodriguez (PR) eats an MRE on top of his AVLB (Armored Vehicle Launch Bridge) on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Sgt. Jose Rodriguez (PR) eats an MRE on top of his AVLB (Armored Vehicle Launch Bridge) on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Sgt. Jason Ostrow (OR) digs into the Chicken and Salsa entree portion of his MRE on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Sgt. Jason Ostrow (OR) digs into the Chicken and Salsa entree portion of his MRE on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Tech Sgt. Keith Menke (WI) cleans his feet with baby wipes on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. Menke said he cleans them and changes his socks about every four days.

Tech Sgt. Keith Menke (WI) cleans his feet with baby wipes on March 30, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. Menke said he cleans them and changes his socks about every four days.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Airman Nick Taylor (OH) puts his feet up to rest and air out while resting on a slow day at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on March 31, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. Monday was one of the hotter days since the beginning of the war, signalling a change in weather. less

Airman Nick Taylor (OH) puts his feet up to rest and air out while resting on a slow day at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on March 31, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. Monday was one of the hotter ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Members of 3rd Infantry Division's Task Force 3-69 set up their tactical operations center after moving their camp north on March 31, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Members of 3rd Infantry Division's Task Force 3-69 set up their tactical operations center after moving their camp north on March 31, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Vapor trails from Air Force bombers fill the sky near Karbala on April 1, 2003, in Iraq. U.S. troops pushed north toward the crucial city on their way to Baghdad.

Vapor trails from Air Force bombers fill the sky near Karbala on April 1, 2003, in Iraq. U.S. troops pushed north toward the crucial city on their way to Baghdad.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A1C Nick Taylor (OH), left, and SSgt. Travis Crosby (GA) change the month on a pinup calendar in the back of their vehicle at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on April 1, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert. Many thought the war would be winding down at this point. less

A1C Nick Taylor (OH), left, and SSgt. Travis Crosby (GA) change the month on a pinup calendar in the back of their vehicle at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on April 1, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A soldier with the 3rd Infantry Division uses a poncho for shade as he sleeps at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on March 31, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

A soldier with the 3rd Infantry Division uses a poncho for shade as he sleeps at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on March 31, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Two soldiers pass the time wrestling in the Iraqi desert while waiting to move north at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on April 1, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Two soldiers pass the time wrestling in the Iraqi desert while waiting to move north at the Task Force 3-69 assembly area on April 1, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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An Iraqi tank explodes after being blasted by an Abrams Tank during a battle for control of a critical bridge north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq.

An Iraqi tank explodes after being blasted by an Abrams Tank during a battle for control of a critical bridge north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A group of Bradleys and tanks cross the Euphrates River over a bridge considered critical to the U.S. cause north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq. Task Force 3-69 troops battled Iraqi forces for the bridge which spans the Euphrates River. less

A group of Bradleys and tanks cross the Euphrates River over a bridge considered critical to the U.S. cause north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq. Task Force 3-69 troops battled Iraqi forces for the bridge ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Destroyed Iraqi vehicles burn South of Baghdad on April 3, 2003 as the 3ID's 1st Brigade move towards Saddam International Airport in Iraq.

Destroyed Iraqi vehicles burn South of Baghdad on April 3, 2003 as the 3ID's 1st Brigade move towards Saddam International Airport in Iraq.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Task Force 3-69 infantrymen are shielded by a Bradley as they fight Iraqi forces for control of an essential bridge over the Euphrates River north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq.

Task Force 3-69 infantrymen are shielded by a Bradley as they fight Iraqi forces for control of an essential bridge over the Euphrates River north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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Abrams tanks move forward along a smoke and fire filled roadway during a battle with Iraqi troops for a critical bridge spanning the Euphrates River north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq.

Abrams tanks move forward along a smoke and fire filled roadway during a battle with Iraqi troops for a critical bridge spanning the Euphrates River north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A car burns on a bridge spanning the Euphrates River as U.S. forces fight to secure the bridge north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq.

A car burns on a bridge spanning the Euphrates River as U.S. forces fight to secure the bridge north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A Task Force 3-69 infantry soldier runs between tanks during a battle for a critical bridge north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq. The battle lasted several hours as the U.S. pounded Iraqi troops in the area. less

A Task Force 3-69 infantry soldier runs between tanks during a battle for a critical bridge north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq. The battle lasted several hours as the U.S. pounded Iraqi troops in the ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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An Iraqi vehicle burns and after being attacked by Apache helicopters north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq. Task Force 3-69 pushed north Wednesday, securing a bridge considered essential to U.S. plans.

An Iraqi vehicle burns and after being attacked by Apache helicopters north of Karbala on April 2, 2003, in Iraq. Task Force 3-69 pushed north Wednesday, securing a bridge considered essential to U.S. plans.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A soldier with second brigade rides in the hatch of his armored vehicle through the town of Kiffel on April 3, 2003, in Iraq.

A soldier with second brigade rides in the hatch of his armored vehicle through the town of Kiffel on April 3, 2003, in Iraq.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

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A Bradley fighting vehicle moves past plumes of smoke from destroyed Iraqi army vehicles as Task Force 3-69 pushes north past the Karbala Gap on April 2, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

A Bradley fighting vehicle moves past plumes of smoke from destroyed Iraqi army vehicles as Task Force 3-69 pushes north past the Karbala Gap on April 2, 2003, in the South Central Iraqi desert.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

Image 69 of 89

A U.S. soldier is seen through a bullethole in a pane of glass on a hangar door on April 4, 2003, at Saddam International Airport in Iraq. U.S. troops had secured the airport after battling Iraqi forces.

A U.S. soldier is seen through a bullethole in a pane of glass on a hangar door on April 4, 2003, at Saddam International Airport in Iraq. U.S. troops had secured the airport after battling Iraqi forces.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, AP

Image 70 of 89

Third Infantry Division ground forces secure a gated area at Saddam International Airport early Friday, April 4, 2003, in Iraq.

Third Infantry Division ground forces secure a gated area at Saddam International Airport early Friday, April 4, 2003, in Iraq.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

Image 71 of 89

A bombed out plane shows the aftermath of overnight fighting for control of Saddam International Airport early Friday on April 4, 2003, outside of Baghdad Iraq. U.S. and Iraqi troops clashed overnight.

A bombed out plane shows the aftermath of overnight fighting for control of Saddam International Airport early Friday on April 4, 2003, outside of Baghdad Iraq. U.S. and Iraqi troops clashed overnight.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

Image 72 of 89

Sgt. William Coultry (Americus, GA), a tank commander, pauses by his vehicle after a morning battle at Saddam International Airport Friday, April 4, 2003, in Iraq.

Sgt. William Coultry (Americus, GA), a tank commander, pauses by his vehicle after a morning battle at Saddam International Airport Friday, April 4, 2003, in Iraq.

SSgt. Travis Crosby (GA) sits atop his tracked vehicle after a night of fighting at Saddam International Airport on April 4, 2003 in Iraq.

SSgt. Travis Crosby (GA) sits atop his tracked vehicle after a night of fighting at Saddam International Airport on April 4, 2003 in Iraq.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

Image 75 of 89

An Iraqi POW waits in line form processing at a hangar Friday, April 4, 2003, at Saddam International Airport in Iraq.

An Iraqi POW waits in line form processing at a hangar Friday, April 4, 2003, at Saddam International Airport in Iraq.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

Image 76 of 89

Air Force Cpt. Shad Magann, SSg. Travis Crosby, and Spc Bryan Slick sleep in the back of an armored vehicle after an overnight and early morning fight for control of Saddam International Airport on April 4, 2003, in Iraq. less

Air Force Cpt. Shad Magann, SSg. Travis Crosby, and Spc Bryan Slick sleep in the back of an armored vehicle after an overnight and early morning fight for control of Saddam International Airport on April 4, ... more

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

Image 77 of 89

Spc. Billy Pfeifer (Anchorage, AK) on guard duty on April 4, 2003, at Saddam International Airport in Iraq.

Spc. Billy Pfeifer (Anchorage, AK) on guard duty on April 4, 2003, at Saddam International Airport in Iraq.

Photo: BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS NEWS

Image 78 of 89

Iraqi POWs are numbered with a marker as they are processed at a hangar on April 4, 2003, at Saddam International Airport in Iraq.

Iraqi POWs are numbered with a marker as they are processed at a hangar on April 4, 2003, at Saddam International Airport in Iraq.